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Is an electric scooter legal in the Netherlands?

Electric scooters are gaining popularity in the Netherlands, but the rules aren't clear to everyone. Are you allowed to just drive an e-scooter on the road? And what will change in 2025 with the new license plate requirement? In this article, we clearly explain all the official government and RDW regulations, so you know exactly what's allowed and what's not.

When is an electric scooter legal in the Netherlands?

Whether you are allowed to drive an electric scooter on the road depends entirely on the type of scooter you have. The government distinguishes between two types e-steps:

Electric scooters without pedal assistance: these move automatically, so you don't have to scoot yourself. Only approved models are allowed on the road.
At MOEVS We expect the first RDW-approved electric car soon steps to include in the range.

Electric scooter with pedal assistance: you have to step yourself, while a small auxiliary motor (maximum 250 watt) offers support. This variant falls under the same regulations as an electric bicycle and is therefore legally roadworthy.

Approved e-steps You can recognize a vehicle by its RDW type approval. Without approval, you are not permitted to drive it on public roads. Want to be the first to know when these are available? Then keep an eye on our blog and newsletter for updates and approved models that will soon be legally roadworthy.

Rules for the use of electrical steps

The government sets clear rules for the use of e-steps without pedal assistance.

- Approval required: only e-steps with RDW type-approval are allowed to drive on public roads.
– Maximum speed: maximum 25 km/h.
– Age: Minimum age 16 to drive on the road.
- Registration requirement: from 1 July 2025 e-steps and other special mopeds require a license plate. For approved e-steps from before that date, the obligation applies from 1 July 2026.
– Road use: ride on the cycle path or moped path, not on the sidewalk.
Helmet & insurance: Helmets are not required, but third-party liability insurance is. The insurance sticker must be visibly affixed to the e-scooter.
– Usage: Do not hold a telephone while driving (hands-free calling and listening to music is allowed).

Please note: applying for a license plate is only possible for RDW-approved vehicles stepsUnapproved models must never be driven on the road.

Electric scooter with pedal assistance: the exception

An electric scooter with pedal assistance falls into the same category as an e-bike. This steps are permitted, as long as they meet the following requirements: maximum speed 25 km/h, a motor of maximum 250 watt and only support while scooting. You don't need a license plate or driver's license. Want to know which models comply with the regulations? View the approved models on the official RDW website or ask for advice at MOEVS about legal e-steps.

Frequently Asked Questions
When is an electric scooter legal on the road?

An electric scooter is only legal if it is RDW approved. Steps without pedal assistance must be approved and may travel at a maximum speed of 25 km/h. Steps with pedal assistance are subject to the same rules as e-bikes and are legal as long as the engine does not exceed 250 watt supports.

 

– Only RDW approved steps are allowed on the road.
– Maximum 25 km/h.
– Minimum age 16 years.
– Registration requirement from 1 July 2025.
– Ride on cycle paths or moped paths, not on the sidewalk.
– Third party insurance mandatory, helmet not mandatory.
– Do not hold a phone while driving.

Yes, this one steps fall under the e-bike rules: maximum 25 km/h, motor maximum 250 watt and support only while scootering. No license plate or driver's license required.

Approved e-steps have an RDW type approval. You can check this on the official RDW website or ask for advice at MOEVS about legal models.